STATEMENT OF SUPPORT FOR WOODLAND CREE FIRST NATION IN FIGHT AGAINST OBSIDIAN ENERGY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(March 17, 2024, Fort McMurray, AB) – The Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC) stands strong in solidarity with Woodland Cree First Nation (WCFN) and other Treaty 8 Chiefs as they continue their fight against Obsidian Energy. ATC joins other First Nations to demand that Obsidian executives return to the table to address the concerns of WCFN and that Canada and Alberta must step in to uphold their duty to consult. 

“As the First Nations directly impacted by oilsands development in Northeastern Alberta, we understand the benefits development can bring, and we know firsthand the devastating impacts when companies fail to respect First Nation rights,” said Chief Allan Adam, President of the Athabasca Tribal Council. “We oppose in the strongest terms actions of industry and government that do not respect our ways of life, the lands, and the people.” 

Without fulfilling their obligations towards WCFN, Obsidian Energy and Alberta will fail to uphold the principles set out by the Alberta Court of Appeal in Fort McKay First Nation v Prosper Petroleum Ltd. and the Supreme Court of Canada in Mikisew Cree First Nation for meaningful consultation and the Crown’s duty to consult. ATC First Nations have a long history of advocating for Indigenous and Treaty rights and will continue to do so. It is not acceptable for Alberta and Canada to delegate their responsibilities to industry proponents who do not fulfill their duty to consult. Governments must take responsibility and be held to account. ATC supports WCFN, and we ask for an expedited resolution that supports the parties coming together for meaningful consultation and a resolution that respects Indigenous and Treaty rights. 

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About ATC

Athabasca Tribal Council is an organization that serves our First Nations by providing relevant and innovative programs and services that enrich the well-being, health and prosperity of its people. ATC is committed to ensuring the protection of inherent rights, Treaty Rights, and their Traditional Territories while respecting the autonomy of each Nation. For information, visit atcfn.ca.

For more information:

Chief Allan Adam
President, Athabasca Tribal Council
780-713-1220